Hold On

The song 'Hold On' by Yes is a powerful anthem of resilience and perseverance in the face of chaos and adversity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world fraught with conflict and deception, where justice seems elusive and dreams are shattered. The opening lines, 'Justice to the left of you / Justice to the right,' suggest a world where fairness is always just out of reach, and individuals are often silenced or dismissed. Despite this, the song encourages listeners to 'Hold on to what is yours,' emphasizing the importance of maintaining one's integrity and personal truth amidst external turmoil.

The imagery of 'Jigsaw puzzle traitors' and 'Constitution screw up' evokes a sense of betrayal and systemic failure, further highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in such a world. The mention of 'Blood flows in the desert' and 'Dark citadels burning' adds a dramatic and almost apocalyptic tone, suggesting that the stakes are incredibly high. Yet, amidst this darkness, the repeated refrain of 'Hold on' serves as a beacon of hope, urging listeners to remain steadfast and patient, as the 'Sunshine' will eventually 'shine on through.' This metaphor of sunshine breaking through the clouds symbolizes hope, renewal, and the promise of better days ahead.

The song also delves into the human experience of grappling with incomplete understanding and the struggle to find meaning. Lines like 'How they drown in incomplete capacity' and 'How we drown in stylistic audacity' reflect the confusion and superficiality that often cloud our judgment. However, the song ultimately champions the idea of perseverance and belief in something greater, as evidenced by the lines 'We believe in eternity' and 'I believe in eternity.' This belief in a higher purpose or enduring truth provides the strength to 'See it through,' reinforcing the central message of resilience and hope.

Overall, 'Hold On' by Yes is a stirring call to maintain faith and determination in the face of life's challenges. It acknowledges the harsh realities of the world but insists that by holding on and believing in the possibility of a brighter future, we can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.